Five-Year Follow-Up of Adolescent Gymnasts After Surgical Treatment of Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Elbow

Management of Capitellar Osteochondritis Dissecans: A Critical Analysis Review

» Osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum is a localized compromise of bone that may lead to subchondral collapse with articular cartilage damage and loose body formation.» The etiology is multifactorial; proposed mechanisms include repetitive microtrauma, vascular insufficiency, and genetic predisposition.» Diagnosis is based on patient presentation, clinical examination, diagnostic imaging, and intraoperative findings.» Management is dependent on lesion characteristics, with stable lesions amenable to nonoperative treatment and unstable lesions managed with surgical intervention.» Adolescent athletes can expect a return to their preinjury level of activity or competition following indicated surgical intervention.

Current concepts: pathology in the overhead athlete's lateral elbow

The lateral elbow is subjected to increasing compressive force in response to repetitive valgus stress. Alterations or deficiencies in overhead mechanics and the kinetic chain may predispose an athlete to injury. Evaluation includes a focused elbow physical examination and imaging, supplemented by a robust screening of core strength, balance, and mechanics of the kinetic chain. Treatment of osteochondritis dissecans, a common lateral elbow pathology, varies based on stability of the lesion, with variable, but often positive outcomes. Proper pitching mechanics, kinetic chain integrity, and workload management provide potential opportunities for prevention.